Mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus were detected in Westchester



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The Westchester County Department of Health has announced that the first two West Nile Virus mosquito sets in Westchester have been identified in Yonkers. The area surrounding the positive mosquito batches was inspected by the Department of Health, which treated nearby catch basins to protect against further breeding of mosquitoes nearby. Westchester County Director George Latimer urged residents to follow West Nile virus prevention tips to avoid mosquito bites using repellents and removing stagnant water after rain.

"Mosquitoes are often considered a nuisance. diseases, including West Nile virus, "said Latimer." With more rain expected this week, it's important to remember that we can prevent mosquitoes from breeding and biting us in our own yards if we dump stagnant water after rain and remove or turn wheelbarrows and watering cans. "

these are the first two positive lots among 134 mosquito lots collected at Westchester that were tested for Nile Virus By the state health department of New York Statewide, the state health department had identified 69 positive mosquito lots as of July 20, according to a spokesman. 19659004] Infected mosquitoes were captured in a trap in Rockland County during the week of June 29 as part of ongoing surveillance efforts for West Nile virus.


SEE ALSO: Mosquitoes infected with Nile o ccidental found in Rockland County


The summer months are those where we expect to find mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus, "said Sherlita Amler, MD, health commissioner. "In addition to evacuating stagnant water around your home, to protect yourself and your family when you spend time outdoors, use repellents, especially from dawn to dusk. twilight, when mosquitoes are the most active. "

mosquito season by educating the public through press releases, flyers, social media and its website, where a new report on the control and Mosquito surveillance can be found on the West Nile virus page. The Ministry of Health has also given 400 pounds of free fathead minnows to residents with ponds to reduce the mosquito population. The minnows reduce the mosquito population by feeding on larvae and nymphs before they become adult mosquitoes.

Throughout the season, the department also captures and tests mosquitoes for the presence of mosquito-borne viruses in the county. Last year, West Nile virus was identified in five out of 380 local mosquito lots tested, and three people were diagnosed with West Nile virus

. may be more serious, especially in people 60 years and older and those with other health problems. The three residents who were diagnosed with West Nile virus last year all recovered.

To prevent mosquitoes from breeding and biting around your house, follow these tips:

  • Avoid the outdoors late in the afternoon and early evening when mosquitoes are active and eat. . Follow the instructions on the label.
  • To protect infants older than two months, adults can apply repellents containing up to 30% DEET on their own hands and then rub them on their children. Products containing DEET are not recommended for children under two months of age.
  • Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts and socks outdoors, especially in areas where mosquitoes are active and feed. , plastic containers and ceramic pots on the outside of your home to avoid accumulating water.
  • Remove stagnant water from outdoor toys and play houses.
  • Remove used tires.
  • Drill holes in the bottom of all containers Flip plastic waders, buckets and wheelbarrows when you are not using them
  • Change the water of the bird baths at least twice per week
  • Prevent sewers and gutters from leaking leaves and debris. pools, outdoor spas and hot tubs until they are properly winterized or drained for the season. In addition, if it is not chlorinated, drain all the water that accumulates on their covers.

Residents who notice large areas of stagnant water on public property should report them to the Westchester County Department of Health at 914-813-5000. Image via Shutterstock

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